For as long as I can remember, prescription glasses have been associated with being ‘nerdy’ or ‘uncool,’ with movie or TV show characters cast as outsiders typically donning a pair to indicate their lower status. Lately, I’ve been thinking more intentionally about their place in fashion, especially now that they’ve become so popular in mainstream style, with people wearing them without a prescription. The designer labels stamped on the lens are often a dead giveaway, which has made me reflect on how these choices tie into the identity we choose to present to the world. Glasses have traditionally been viewed through a functional lens, but I think now more than ever, their fashion potential has yet to be explored to its fullest.
Prescription glasses, with their endless range of styles, allow you to step into someone else’s metaphorical shoes, embodying a different character with each frame. Whether it’s a bold pair that adds edge or a softer, oversized frame that channels a nostalgic ‘70s vibe, glasses are a small but powerful tool for shaping your identity and expressing your style to the world. I’ve noticed that people who pay attention to this tiny detail often have the most depth. They tend to be thoughtful and intentional, and that care shows in even the smallest choices. The people who immediately come to mind are Iris Apfel with her large round glasses and Jenna Lyons with her signature aviator pair. In an attempt to follow in their footsteps, I ended up finding my own pair of personality glasses: the Visionary pair from Bloobloom.
The idea behind this decision was to find a pair of glasses that balanced out my usual glammed-up, hair-done look. On most days, you won’t catch me without lip liner or blush, so I wanted something that felt a bit more quirky — so I didn’t end up looking like I was taking myself too seriously. I was after a thinner frame that would seamlessly blend into my overall look, and I think these hit the mark.
But my curiosity wasn’t quite satisfied yet, so I headed to two glasses stores in London, continuing my search for frames that could inspire different personas.
My first store was Eyes on Soho. They are know for carrying brands and frames that aren’t typically carried in many other stores and therefore I wanted to see what unique offerings I could find.
The first pair I tried on were these gold, thin-framed glasses with a bit of an aviator vibe. They felt like jewellery for your face, and I just knew they’d go with pretty much everything. Elegant, delicate, and clearly made for someone living a life of pure glamour and fabulous taste. Safe to say, I’m a fan.
I was instantly drawn to the cyber-punk vibe of this pair — thick frames and an animated lilac purple that’s hard to miss. The shape feels more suited to sunglasses than everyday specs, but they’re a fun choice for anyone who leans into colour and vibrancy, and wants their glasses to reflect that too.
Both of these above are definitely on the bolder side. I see them as made for the unapologetic woman who’s turned what some might call a weakness (like not being able to see two feet ahead) into a full-on superpower. These aren’t glasses for the shy or soft-spoken; they’re for someone who walks tall and doesn’t flinch at taking up space. I loved the rush of confidence I felt wearing them, like I’d stepped into a louder, prouder version of myself.
The next stop was Cubitts — known for their more classic frame shapes, but with a bit more edge. The first pair I tried on were this cat-eye-meets-square hybrid, striking that perfect balance between sophistication and subtle sex appeal. I immediately felt like a YSL woman: all business, with a knowing wink. The tortoiseshell softened the bold silhouette, and these quickly became one of my favourites of the day.
These aviator-style glasses were the last pair I tried on and, truthfully, the most underwhelming. They weren’t bad by any means; the style had a certain cool factor and definitely offered more than your average pair. But somehow, they still ended up feeling forgettable. I think the shape just didn’t have enough character to leave a lasting impression. In a lineup full of bold, personality-filled frames, these felt like the quiet one in the corner — nice enough, but not exactly stealing the show.
This journey showed me that glasses are not just a tool to help you see clearly, but also to see yourself in new ways. Whether you’re choosing a bold, statement-making pair or something more subtle for everyday wear, there’s a pair out there that perfectly matches your style.
I hope you have a lovely week and speak to you soon :)
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the first pair from eyes on soho!! love<3
I can truly relate, Morenike. I wear prescription glasses every day. I’ve also invested in now 2nd pair of prescription sunglasses. I love the first pair you’re wearing from Eyes on SoHo and then both from Cubitts 👌🏻🥳